Houston's Levy Park came alive with the magic of Diwali on October 19, 2024, bringing together people from diverse backgrounds in a culmination of light, music, food, and tradition.  

Diwali, known as the "Festival of Lights," is a major festival that is recognized worldwide. Celebrated by over a billion people worldwide, and over 100,000 Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Sikhs in Houston, the holiday symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil.

From the moment festival-goers entered the sprawling six-acre Levy Park, they were immersed in the vibrant choreography unfolding on the main stage.

Dancers draped in colorful saris – a traditional South Asian garment wrapped gracefully around the body – brought Bollywood, folk, and semi-classical Indian dances to life. Music filled the air, amplifying the performers’ energy and joy, as the audience stood mesmerized by every beat and movement.

Now in its 12th year, the Houston Diwali Fest attracts attendees from all walks of life and corners of the world. A visitor who entered a dance competition at the festival mentioned that she was visiting from Turkey, with two others stating they were from Panama and Ecuador. As people from all walks of life piled the lawn, sitting knee to knee with their loved ones and friends, it was clear that Diwali had something to offer everyone there – joy.

“There are three things that everybody does on Diwali: we do good things, we say good things, and we spread cheer. And that’s what we’re all just doing by being here today with each other.” –Sunil Thakkar, founder of Masala Radio

The marketplace at the Diwali Festival was brimming with stunning craftsmanship. Vendors that lined the park’s walkway displayed an array of traditional Indian clothing.

Some merchandise sold included intricately embroidered kurtas (a long, loose, collarless tunic) and handwoven lungis (a long piece of cloth typically worn around the waist and falls to wearer’s heel).

Shoppers admired jewelry, such as ornate bangles studded with gemstones, while others explored booths offering festive wear and perfume.

Food during Diwali connects family, friends, and communities, and serves as a symbol of prosperity and good fortune for the coming year.

At the heart of the Houston Diwali Festival of Lights were food stalls serving staples in Indian cuisine, like samosas, a crispy, golden-brown triangular pastry that is usually filled with spiced potatoes, peas, and sometimes lentils or onions.

“One of my favorite dishes that I enjoy eating around Diwali are Dosas. But I don’t have to have an excuse to stuff myself full with them year-round!” –Ihsan Shafi, 28, Houston

As the evening drew to a close, the flicker of lanterns mirrored the warmth shared among the attendees. Diwali is more than just a festival of lights; it’s a celebration of togetherness, hope, and tradition.

“Diwali is part of my culture’s time to reconnect with our families and think about our future hopes. We’re looking forward to and even more prosperous times with one another. It’s a treasure.” –Vidhu Aggarwal, 34, Houston